The publication ‘Cancer Waiting Times in NHS Scotland ’ was released last week and shows that between April and June, the percentage of patients who started treatment within 31 days of a doctor’s diagnosis has improved.

However, health boards throughout the country failed to follow NHS Lanarkshire’s lead and Tory MSP Graham Simpson blasted the Government for their failures.

A total of 95.7 per cent of patients are now receiving treatment within the target timescales.

With the average wait to start treatment standing at six days.

Figures praised by Alex Neil MSP

The new report also confirmed that nine out of 10 patients began cancer treatment within 62 days of a referral.

Mr Neil praised the news, adding: “The latest cancer waiting time figures are encouraging. I’m pleased to see an improvement in the number of people being treated within the targeted timescale.

"The new figures show that NHS Lanarkshire met its 62 day standard target. The 31 Day Standard that 95 per cent of all patients will wait no more than 31 days from decision to treat to first cancer treatment was also met by NHS Lanarkshire.

“I am pleased that NHS Lanarkshire is one of the most efficient health boards in Scotland. As a former health minister I understand the challenges facing health boards.